A surge in violent robberies continues to plague parts of Nairobi and its outskirts, with the latest incidents in Kayole and Joska claiming two lives over the weekend. Authorities have launched investigations into the attacks as they intensify efforts to combat knife-wielding gangs operating in informal settlements.
In Kayole, detectives are pursuing two known suspects responsible for the fatal stabbing of 18-year-old Clinton Otieno and the serious injury of another man in the Muthaiga Dumpsite area. Witnesses and police reports indicate that the victims resisted the robbery, prompting the assailants to resort to violence. The attackers, armed with a knife and a needle-like object, inflicted fatal chest and head injuries on Otieno before escaping. The injured victim was rushed to a local hospital in critical condition.
Authorities have raised concerns over the increasing number of violent robberies involving knives, especially in informal settlements. Law enforcement has urged residents to avoid resisting armed attackers and instead comply for their own safety. A special police squad has been deployed to pursue knife-wielding gangs following a rise in such cases.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident in Joska, Machakos County, a security guard was killed during a robbery at a local wines and spirits shop. The body of Patrick Mutua was discovered outside the premises on Sunday morning, long after the attack occurred. Police reports indicate that Mutua was struck on the head with a blunt object by unknown assailants who proceeded to break into the shop and steal alcohol and other valuables.
Authorities suspect that the guard attempted to resist the gang, leading to his brutal murder. His body was taken to the mortuary pending an autopsy as investigations continue. No arrests have been made so far, but police are pursuing leads to apprehend the suspects.
The rise in violent crime has sparked fear among residents, with many calling for increased police patrols and better security measures. Law enforcement agencies have vowed to intensify operations in crime-prone areas to curb the growing threat of armed robberies.
